Events

The Creative Economic Development Summer Workshop Series is a three-part learning experience designed for economic development professionals, chamber leaders, tourism staff, and community champions across Southwest Minnesota. Participants will leave with practical tools, rural-focused examples, and an action plan and resources for designing and implementing a creative economic development project in their own community.

Come celebrate Southwest Initiative Foundation’s 40th Anniversary by enjoying breakfast at the Benson Bakery. This is a come-and-go event. Stop by when you can to say hello to SWIF staff, connect with neighbors and community members, and check the Benson Bakery in Benson.

Come celebrate Southwest Initiative Foundation's 40th Anniversary by enjoying happy hour at Lakewood Supper Club. This is a come-and-go event. Stop by when you can to say hello to SWIF staff, connect with neighbors and community members, and check out Lakewood Supper Club in Ortonville.

Come celebrate Southwest Initiative Foundation's 40th Anniversary by enjoying happy hour at Talking Waters Brewing Company. This is a come-and-go event. Stop by when you can to say hello to SWIF staff, connect with neighbors and community members, and check out our loan client, Talking Waters Brewing Company in Montevideo.

Come celebrate Southwest Initiative Foundation’s 40th Anniversary by enjoying lunch at Gnometown Grounds. This is a come-and-go event. Stop by when you can to say hello to SWIF staff, connect with neighbors and community members, and check out our loan client, Gnometown Grounds in Dawson.